My husband also died 8 years. I too took care of him for several years. We were married 51 wonderful years. I am living alone now. I have two daughters living close. My house needs a lot of work that I can't afford to do, but it is home! I am in constant pain with my back. I don't want to be on pain meds. because they make me feel doopy. I only take them when I have to. Some days are worse then others. I know I will be fine to, God is with me!

Tell your doctor if your meds make you Dopey. What one Med may do another may not. Perhaps you might try breaking them in half if we're not Time released. Everybody reacts the different drugs differently, some don't work for some people some work too well. There is a pill for everyone you just have to keep looking till you find the right one. Don't give up.

Hosta, I agree with wsh66. Please keep trying different pain meds. That's what I'm doing. My dr. will no longer prescribe opiods. So far we haven't found one. Lyrica doesn't work. I live alone. All family members are in other states. But while my house also needs repairs, it is my home. As you mentioned, do you know what makes some days worse than others? I haven't been able to figure out why it happens to me, too. I've thought about humidity, heat, cold, anxiety and depression. And even what I had to eat the day before. Do you have any clues? My condolances on the loss of your husband. Take care.

wsh66, I have told the doctor about the meds making me feel dopey. So far he hasn't given me any thing but hydrocodone-acetaminophen for pain. I am also on Gabapentin for nerve pain,and pramipexole for restless legs. among other meds for other problems. The cost for meds are so high. But I won't give up. Thanks Good luck to you also!

cognac , For my upper back, using my arms while cooking, at the computer, helping in my greenhouse business, etc: Also, for the lower back. Just standing. I use heat and that seems to help. I sure wish I had a solution. I would fix everyone. Ha!

Drugs work different for everyone. Be care with Hydrocodone. Hang in there.

Cognac..WOOOOO that is a very good sounding drug. I cannot drink any alcohol with the drugs I am taking and the infusion. My once a week shot will leave me totally in pain if I drink. Also, our Liver is easy to destroy. I just want to be careful.

@oregongirl Wishing you the best at finding an apartment that will meet your needs. My apartment is adequate even though the constant noise is irksome. Was a senior complex and this has changed. Sad how others have no respect for others or the home they are renting. I am only responsible for my behavior. All apartment doors are inside and so whenever I come or go someone asks where...hard to not snap at them being so inquisitive.

Parus, sounds like units I am considering. I cannot afford Independent living in senior place. I am just not ready for that. It cost s min of 2500 to start and goes up every year. At least with an apt, I can negotiate with landlord. Want long lease? Well here is what I want. My only issue is living on first floor in complex. You are very open to possible crime. What happened to this world. Come Lord Jesus.

Parus. Gone strong days when to could say leave me alone. I am fine alone. Take walks , movie etc. But then kids might say hum mom is closing in herself, time for senior living. Not